Searing temperatures over 40 degrees Celsius causing discomfort in France, labelled as an 'exceptional' heat episode - Intense Heat Waves Cause Struggle: France Endures Unusual Scorching Temperatures Over 40 Degrees
Heatwave Grips Southwestern France, Breaking Temperature Records
A severe heatwave, primarily driven by human-induced climate change, has been affecting southwestern France since early August 2025. The heatwave, which started around August 10, is expected to continue into the week of August 18 to 24.
On Sunday, August 17, record temperatures were reached in southwest France, with Montat recording 42.9°C and Mirande hitting 42.6°C. Other notable high temperatures include 42.3°C in Angoulême and 41.6°C in Bordeaux on the preceding days.
This heatwave is part of a series of intense heat events throughout 2025 in France, following earlier record-breaking heat in May and June. Temperatures above 40°C, once rare in France, have become increasingly common due to climate change.
The heatwave has caused red heat alerts in multiple departments and impacted air quality due to ozone pollution, especially in Ile-de-France and Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur. Meteo-France monitors dozens of stations to track the occurrence of such high temperatures, expecting many locations to have surpassed 40°C during this episode.
The heatwave is not limited to the southern half of France and is now affecting more parts of the country. Paris, for instance, is expected to have temperatures of 34 degrees, according to Météo-France. Météo-France forecasts temperatures of 38 degrees in the center of France.
The heatwave that occurred in France from June 19 to July 4 has ended. However, this new heatwave is expected to last "at least" until the weekend, according to the weather service. The heatwave is moving north across France, with the Hérault department in France reaching a temperature of 42.2 degrees and the Pyrénées-Orientales department experiencing temperatures of 40.9 degrees.
As the heatwave continues, residents in southwestern France are sweating under the intense heat. Experts warn that the frequency and severity of heatwaves in France may increase due to human-induced climate change. Residents are advised to stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day, and check on vulnerable neighbours.
- In response to the escalating frequency and intensity of heatwaves, such as the one currently affecting southwestern France, the community policy and employment policy might consider implementing strategies to increase awareness about the risks and prevention measures, as well as offering support to those more susceptible to extreme temperatures.
- Given the continued impact of human-induced climate change on weather patterns, including the current heatwave in southwestern France, educational institutions could incorporate lessons on environmental science, climate-change, and its effects on weather, as part of their employment policy, to further social responsibility and sustainability in the workforce of the future.
